Class is an aura of confidence that is being sure without being cocky. Class has nothing to do with money. Class never runs scared. It is self-discipline and self-knowledge. It's the sure footedness that comes with having proved you can meet life. - Ann Landers
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ostentatious as "attracting or seeking to attract attention, admiration, or envy often by gaudiness or obviousness...overly elaborate or conspicuous ...characterized by, fond of, or evincing ostentation".
The dichotomy is obvious; however, people often opt for the latter which has a more negative connotation. It is probably because class comes from within, and is not so easy to develop. It would be relatively easy to put up a plush facade to draw attention. In a busy world full of self-centered and/or self-absorbed, ostentatious human beings, the small group of classy people is usually ignored and forgotten.
When I was young, my parents would praise me and give me money whenever I came home with an excellent report card. Mediocrity was not in their vocabulary. They would punish me for not conforming to the norm, talking back or speaking up against injustices. I was taught to believe that people would only respect those who are professionals, in authoritative positions or wealthy.
Sadly, many children born in the 21st century are still being raised with this set of values. The main difference is that young people in developed countries cannot do simple arithmetic, spell or remember names, dates or phone numbers these days; they rely on their smartphones to do all that. Other than designer clothing and accessories, they crave for expensive cell phones and popular electronics. Terms such as depression and ADHD are used loosely to describe their psychological states when things are not going their way and/or they do not get what they want.
What we should teach in schools and at home is self-knowledge, independent thinking, problem-solving skills, self-discipline and respect for others. Hopefully, ostentatious and selfish behaviour can be diverted, and class would be restored in future generations.
Sadly, many children born in the 21st century are still being raised with this set of values. The main difference is that young people in developed countries cannot do simple arithmetic, spell or remember names, dates or phone numbers these days; they rely on their smartphones to do all that. Other than designer clothing and accessories, they crave for expensive cell phones and popular electronics. Terms such as depression and ADHD are used loosely to describe their psychological states when things are not going their way and/or they do not get what they want.
What we should teach in schools and at home is self-knowledge, independent thinking, problem-solving skills, self-discipline and respect for others. Hopefully, ostentatious and selfish behaviour can be diverted, and class would be restored in future generations.
